The ARS500 banknote featuring a jaguar image was launched on June 30, 2016, thereby giving rise to the new series of banknotes containing images of native fauna from several regions of the country.
By choosing this image, the BCRA wishes the national currency to be a meeting point where all Argentinians may feel represented while raising awareness of biodiversity and environment protection.
The new banknote, made of 100% cotton paper in a greenish color and of the same size as the Peso Series, will be distributed progressively through the network of bank branches and ATMs across the country. Like the rest of new bill series, the ARS200 banknotes will coexist with those currently in circulation.
The jaguar is a critically endangered species. It was chosen because it is deemed a National Natural Monument, one of the most important categories in terms of preservation. As few as 250 jaguars inhabit our country, particularly in the northeast, in the Misiones rainforest, and in some areas of Chaco, Santiago del Estero, and Formosa; they may also be found in the rainforests of Salta and Jujuy.
The banknote has a vertical shape and a jaguar is drawn on the obverse. The reverse side, which has a horizontal shape, shows the image of the forest, its natural habitat. At the bottom of the left-hand corner there appears a picture of a baby jaguar that appeals to children in an attempt to raise awareness in future generations. Green is the prevailing color.
The banknote also has strict security features such as: a watermark that shows a jaguar and number 500, fluorescent fibers under UV light as well as a security thread that changes from green to blue.
Chart of security features of the ARS500 banknote
The ARS500 banknote has a higher purchasing power than that of the previous banknote of highest denomination. In addition, its relative value is higher measured in terms of foreign currency. Additionally, this banknote will also facilitate a suitable replenishment of ATMs, and a reduction in costs (from 5 to 1) and cash distribution time. It will also speed up many daily transactions improving Argentinians’ quality of life.
The new banknote was presented during a ceremony held on June 29, 2016, at the Museum of the BCRA. Some of the attendees were the Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development, Sergio Bergman, representatives of NGOs related to the protection of the environment and experts in numismatics, amongst other special guests. During the presentation, the Governor of the BCRA, Federico Sturzenegger, underscored the six key ideas imbedded in the design of new banknotes: 1st: To celebrate life rather than death. 2nd Focus on the future rather than the past. 3rd Shift from solemnity to joy. 4th Promote federalism. 5th We are more than just men and women. 6th We are all together.
In addition, he stated: “The new designs on our banknotes pay homage to our country and its fauna. We hope this will strengthen everyone’s commitment to the environment.”
The improvements in the operation of daily economic activities that will result from the ARS500 banknote are also supplemented by the development of electronic means of payment, one of the main objectives of the BCRA. Several measures have been taken in this regard in the last few months such as ordering that savings accounts and their debit cards be free-of-charge, as well as electronic transfers made by natural persons and the implementation of new methods of payment through mobile phone.
For more information:
Presentation Video
Security Features Video
Video of Federico Sturzenegger’s Speech Presenting the ARS500 Banknote.
